Background knowledge of subject matter of specialisation and of scientific methodology, and completion of a degree in the sciences or related discipline, eg engineering.

Course Description

This course deveolps the knowledge and skills required by Honours and Masters students to successfully design and implement a scientific research project. You will access online information in order to achieve a systematic approach to literature searching and an awareness of information sources, which in turn will be applied in designing a research project. You will develop skills in quantitative data treatment in order to practice the interpretation of scientific data. Finally, the course will provide important information relating to lab and field work safety, research ethics, intellectual property and patenting.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

This course contributes to the following School of Applied Science Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):

PLO-1.1 You will demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and an ability to apply the scientific method in practice

PLO-2.3 You will demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methodology appropriate to your discipline

PLO-3.2 You will be able to gather, critically review and synthesise information relevant to a scientific inquiry or research project

PLO-5.3 You will work responsibly, safely and ethically.

This course is taught to achieve AQF level 9 learning outcomes

On completion of the course, you should be able to:

Use advanced information retrieval techniques to search the literature, using the RMIT library facilities

Produce an outline of a research project, including hypothesis formation and method development

Attendance at lectures where syllabus material will be presented and explained, and the subject will be illustrated with demonstrations and examples

In online teaching, you will be guided through the course by lecture materials on the web, and by instructions in the assignments

Completion of written and mathematical written assignments designed to give further practice in the application of theory and procedures

Private study, working through the course as presented in lectures, tutorials and learning materials

Overview of Learning Resources

You will be expected to access relevant texts, library materials and freely accessible internet sites. Other material will be provided in lecture material. You will be able to access course information and learning material through the myRMIT Canvas.